R,C&S question

[Ron Nossaman]

> */Still, doesn't an RC&S panel experience similar high compression 
> loads when it's humid out also leading to the accelerated aging. 

Without the high compression levels of the 4%MC assembly, the 
RC&S wouldn't have the compression damage and accelerated 
aging. Starting with 6%MC, the compression levels, and hence 
the panel damage, don't reach the same level of severity. And 
what panel damage might accrue from whatever compression set 
the panel incurs, the ribs are still supporting crown and 
bearing and keeping the assembly functional.


>I hear 
> what you're saying about wood, but if we're going to be consistent, why 
> should there be accelerated aging on any type of panel if it's kept in a 
> relatively stabile environment. /*

That's the problem in the real world, isn't it? A relatively 
stable environment is easy to spec, but unlikely to be found 
in most venues. If you're going to build something that is to 
survive and function in the real world, you can't factor real 
world conditions out of the design equation.


> */I'm just trying to get a sense of that interchange of stiffness from 
> compression verse rib support. I guess the hybrid covers the in 
> between range, but I think the variations might be fascinating, soundwise./*

Structurally, it's a matter of choosing which compromise best 
meets your criteria. Tonally, you have to find what produces 
what you want to hear, regardless of the structural and 
longevity price. Then you have to consider the climate 
extremes the whole mess will be subjected to and decide what 
will best meet your performance criteria for what you consider 
an adequate amount of time under the abusive conditions in 
which it will be expected to perform, and build it. Piece of 
cake...
Ron N